The New York Knicks opened two roster spots via buyouts for Metta World Peace and Beno Udrih, and they have filled those slots through 10-day contracts for Earl Clark and Shannon Brown, the team announced.

Both players will enter a tumultuous situation, with the high-profile Knicks struggling and out of the postseason. There is also the fresh controversy of Knicks guard Raymond Felton's felony gun charges, an issue the team has vowed will not become a distraction. Each player was added because the Knicks need defensive help on the perimeter, and the Miami Heat will test these new Knicks on Thursday.

That Clark is in this scenario is a surprise on some levels, considering he signed a two-year, $9 million deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers this past offseason. Clark underperformed, however, putting together only 5.2 points and 2.8 rebounds over 15.5 minutes in 45 games as a Cavalier. Because of those shortcomings, he was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Spencer Hawes and the Sixers later bought him out of that deal.

Brown is fresh off a 10-day deal with the Spurs after sitting out most of the season. He has been a valuable defender in the past, and is an obvious upgrade in terms of defense and athleticism.